Iga Swiatek hails former Australian Open champion and ‘huge inspiration’ Ashleigh Barty – ‘I’m really grateful for her’

Iga Swiatek says former world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty was a “huge inspiration” for her and played a role in her “breakthrough” career moment.

In her post-match interview, Swiatek was asked about Barty’s influence on her career.

The pair only played twice before Barty retired in March 2022, shortly after winning her first Australian Open title and third Grand Slam.

Barty won both matches – at the 2021 Madrid Open and 2022 Adelaide International – in two sets.

“I think that was a breakthrough for me. I was a top 10 player, but it was tough to play against her [Barty] and to win points, and she really motivated me.

“It wasn’t the only reason, but it was one of the reasons I later became world No.1, because I just felt I had more variety. I started practising this stuff just to play against her, getting back slices and everything. So for sure, I’m really grateful for her.

“I don’t know if I would still be world No.1 if she was still playing but she was a huge inspiration.”

Swiatek is now a four-time Grand Slam champion, although her best finish at the Australian Open so far is the semi-final stage in 2022.

The 22-year-old expanded on her admiration for Barty in the press conference after her victory against Kenin.

“It was really annoying losing against [Barty] and playing against her because, as I said, you knew what she’s going to play, in terms of the tactics and the placement,” said Swiatek.

“She did it so well, there was nothing you could do. It really annoyed me. I wanted to get better, be able to be solid when she’s playing her slices.

“Even though she wasn’t the tallest [player], she served really well and the placement was amazing. I knew that if I’m going to be working hard, it could be possible for me. She really motivated me.

“Also, off court, I felt like she has distance to everything what’s going on. Yeah, for sure she felt a lot of pressure and stress. She was always in her own bubble, in the zone. I really respected that.”

Swiatek next plays on Thursday against Collins, who defeated 2016 winner Angelique Kerber to progress to the second round.